HS Code 12060000: A Comprehensive Guide to Sunflower Seeds Import and Export

Sunflower seeds, whether whole or broken, fall under the HS Code 12060000. This article aims to provide an extensive understanding of this HS code, including its product description, duty rates, quantity units, special tariff preference programs, and the importing and exporting US states associated with it.

Product Description: Sunflower Seeds, Whether or Not Broken

Under HS Code 12060000, sunflower seeds are classified as a commodity. This code covers both whole and broken sunflower seeds, indicating that the condition of the seeds does not affect their classification. Sunflower seeds are highly versatile and have various applications in the food industry, primarily as a snack, in baking, and as an ingredient in different culinary preparations.

Bound / MFN Duty Rate

The bound or Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS Code 12060000 is free. This means that countries do not impose any import duties or tariffs on sunflower seeds when traded under this code. The principle behind the MFN duty rate is that when a country lowers a trade barrier or opens up a market, it must do so for the same goods or services from all its trading partners.

Quantity Unit: Kilograms (KG)

The quantity unit for sunflower seeds under HS Code 12060000 is kilograms (KG). This unit of measurement is commonly used worldwide to quantify the weight of goods traded internationally. When importing or exporting sunflower seeds, both buyers and sellers will need to consider the weight in kilograms to ensure accurate trade transactions.

Special Tariff Preference Programs

HS Code 12060000 is eligible for several special tariff preference programs that provide benefits and exemptions to certain countries. The following are the special tariff preference programs associated with this HS code:

Free: Imports from least-developed beneficiary developing countries eligible for Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) under that subheading receive duty-free treatment.
Australia Special Rate
Bahrain Special Rate
NAFTA for Canada: Duty-free treatment for sunflower seed imports from Canada under the North American Free Trade Agreement.
Chile Special Rate
Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA): Duty-free treatment for sunflower seed imports from eligible African countries.
Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI)
Israel Special Rate
Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA)
Jordan Special Rate
Morocco Special Rate
NAFTA for Mexico: Duty-free treatment for sunflower seed imports from Mexico under the North American Free Trade Agreement.
Oman Special Rate
Dominican Republic-Central American Special Rate (DR-CAFTA)
Peru Special Rate
Singapore Special Rate

These special tariff preference programs aim to promote trade and economic cooperation between countries by reducing or eliminating import duties for specific goods, including sunflower seeds. Importers and exporters should thoroughly understand these programs to benefit from duty-free treatment and preferential trade agreements.

Importing US States

Under HS Code 12060000, the following US states are associated with sunflower seed imports:

Kansas
North Dakota

These states play a significant role in importing sunflower seeds, either for domestic consumption or further distribution to other states or countries. The presence of sunflower seed imports in these states showcases the demand and market for this agricultural commodity.

Exporting US States

On the other hand, when it comes to exporting sunflower seeds from the United States, North Dakota stands out as a prominent state. North Dakota has a favorable climate and fertile soil for sunflower cultivation, making it a primary contributor to the country's sunflower seed exports. The state's expertise in sunflower production enables it to meet both domestic and international demands for this versatile commodity. HS Code 12060000 encompasses sunflower seeds, whether whole or broken. It provides valuable information on the product description, duty rates, quantity units, special tariff preference programs, and the importing and exporting US states associated with this HS code. Importers, exporters, and individuals interested in sunflower seed trade can utilize this comprehensive guide to navigate the complexities of international trade regulations and benefit from the various tariff preference programs available.

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